Detained Khowst, Helmand province militants identified

BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan – Coalition forces have released the identity of two insurgents detained during separate operations conducted last month to disrupt militant operations in Helmand and Khowst provinces.

The insurgents, identified as Raz Mohammad and Wali Gul, were apprehended during two separate operations targeting anti-government militants.

Mohammad, 20, was detained March 14 during operations targeting a Taliban commander in Helmand province.  Mohammad is believed to be the brother of the targeted Taliban leader and is suspected of conducting anti-government operations.  At the time of his capture, Mohammad was in a room with several AK-47 assault rifles and an ammunition vest.

Gul, AKA Wali, 26, was detained March 14, during operations targeting a Haqqani network of fighters in Gorbuz District, Khowst province.  He is known to have transported weapons into Afghanistan illegally and participated in the rocket attack against the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan district center, in Tani District. 

At the time of his capture, Gul was in a residence with several associates who were killed when they threatened Coalition forces.  Several AK-47 assault rifles, another rifle, a shotgun and ammunition were recovered from the residence.